Creamy Butternut Mac & Cheese!
Butternut mac: make this rich and creamy mac and cheese. Sweet caramelized onions, crisp apples, and smoky bacon rounds out this comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup onions, sliced thinly
- 1/2 box whole grain elbow macaroni (about 2.5 cups dry)
- 1 cup canned butternut squash puree
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons evaporated milk
- 1 oz low fat cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large crispy apple, chopped or grated
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat butter in a skillet over low heat. When melted, add onions and let caramelize for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Keep heat on low/low-medium.
- Cook the pasta according to directions. Drain and return to pan over low heat. Add butternut squash, chicken broth, evaporated milk, and cream cheese. When combined, add in salt.
- Add onions and apples to the pasta. Stir to combine and add a tablespoon more broth or milk if needed.
- Just before serving, mix in cheese and stir until melted. Top each serving with 1 tablespoon bacon.
Notes
- For truly rich caramelized onions, cook them low and slow for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don't rush this step. - Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing with the sauce; it will continue to cook slightly. - If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. - For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash yourself instead of using canned puree.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.